Obituary of Robert "Bob" STEWART

Bob Stewart, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend passed away at home on January 9, 2014 at the age of 81, with his wife of 58 years, Elaine, at his side as she had always been. He was known as an honest, generous, and hardworking man, who cared deeply for his family and friends. Family members mourning his passing are his daughter Laura, his son Doug, his daughter-in-law Lakshmi, and his grandsons Ian, Colin, and Curtis, all of whom he mentored, encouraged, praised and loved. Two sisters and their families, Rae Trimble of Claresholm, and Anna Mae Maruyama of St. Albert, also mourn his loss. Other survivors include many extended family members and friends. Bob was predeceased by his younger brother, Gene Stewart. Bob was born on September 14, 1932 in Claresholm to Roy and Mae Stewart. He was raised on the family farm with his siblings and attended schools in the rural area and in the town of Claresholm. Upon graduation he joined the Canadian Bank of Commerce and rose to the position of manager. On July 30, 1955, he married his high school sweetheart, Elaine Pitt and they began their long married journey adding Laura, born in Medicine Hat and Doug, born in Peace River. Bob changed careers in 1968 when he joined Imperial Life Assurance Co. in Calgary. During this time he earned the financial designations of C.L.U., C.F.P. and CHFC. Bob was a member of the Million Dollar Round Table Club multiple times. After a most successful career in the insurance business, Bob joined with his partner and friend, John Knowles, to form Centre Financial, where he enjoyed working until retirement in 2006. Bob and Elaine loved to travel and took many trips to many countries with their good friends, Murray and Wilma McQueen. Community service was also high on Bob’s list and he served two terms as President of the Banff Trail Community Association. Bob’s passion, however, was the Knox United Church where he served many executive positions on the church board, and became a founding member of the Knox United Church Foundation. He devoted much time and interest to his job of Investment Consultant for the Foundation, and up until the time of his passing Bob held the titles of Director Emeritus and Treasurer. The family would like to thank Bob’s many doctors and medical teams who worked tirelessly to keep him well since his health issues began in 2006. A Memorial Service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held at Knox United Church, on Saturday, January 25, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. A reception will follow in the downstairs theatre. If friends and family so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Knox United Church Foundation, 506 – 4 Street S.W., Calgary, AB T2P 1S7. HERITAGE FUNERAL SERVICES “Calgary Crematorium Chapel” Telephone: (403) 299-0111